Sens GM Murray diagnosed with cancer

The Senators made the announcement Monday in a statement, but did not disclose the type of cancer.

"Mr. Murray is undergoing further testing and will begin treatment immediately for this condition as prescribed by the team's doctors in collaboration with specialists," the team said in the statement Monday.

"Mr. Murray's treatment schedule may require him to be away from the Senators office periodically. During his periodic absence, assistant general managers Pierre Dorion and Randy Lee will be responsible for managing the Ottawa Senators hockey operations department.

"On behalf of the entire Senators family, the team is asking that the thoughts, prayers and support of the entire hockey community are with Bryan and his family.

"The Senators and Mr. Murray ask that you please respect his family's privacy during this time."

Murray just signed a two-year contract extension in January and was also given the title of president of hockey operations. He will remain with the organization in an advisory role upon the conclusion of the extension in 2016.

The 71-year-old Murray has been with the franchise since June 2004 when he was named the team's head coach. He then took over the general manager's duties on June 18, 2007.

Murray had a record of 100-46-18 as head coach from 2005-07, guiding the Senators to the Stanley Cup Finals in the spring of 2007. He also coached the team for the final 18 games of the 2007-08 campaign after firing John Paddock.

Before joining the Senators, Murray served as the senior vice president and general manager for Anaheim. He took over as the Ducks' head coach in 2001 and moved to the front office the following season, building a club that went to the Cup Finals in the spring of 2003.

Murray just completed his 19th season as a GM, having served with the Panthers (1994-2000) and Red Wings (1990-94) before a two-year run in Anaheim. He began his NHL coaching career with the Washington Capitals in November 1981 and captured the Jack Adams Award as Coach of the Year for the 1983-84 campaign.